New York City's Hospitals for Philtrum Shortening Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

New York City, a vibrant metropolis, is home to some of the world's top - notch medical institutions. Philtrum shortening surgery, a specialized cosmetic procedure, has gained popularity in recent years. This article delves into the best hospitals in New York City for this surgery, taking into account various factors such as reputation, expertise, and patient outcomes. Before we get into the rankings, let's first understand what philtrum shortening surgery is.

Understanding Philtrum Shortening Surgery

What is the Philtrum?

The philtrum is the vertical space from the base of your nose to the middle of the top of your upper lip. It plays a crucial role in facial aesthetics as it connects the nose and the lips, unifying the upper and lower parts of the face. Many people are unhappy with the length or shape of their philtrum, especially as they age. With time, the philtrum tends to become longer due to the effects of gravitational pull, weakening of facial muscles and ligaments, and increased skin elasticity. A long philtrum can make a person appear older than their actual age.

Goals of Philtrum Shortening Surgery

Philtrum shortening surgery aims to reduce the length of the philtrum and can also enhance its shape. This procedure can be combined with an upper - lip lift to achieve a more youthful and harmonious appearance. The benefits include a more defined cupid's bow, enhanced lip volume without the use of fillers, better tooth - show when smiling, and improved balance between the upper and lower lips. It can create a more feminine and youthful smile, reducing the need for excessive makeup to contour the upper lip.

Types of Philtrum Shortening Surgeries

• Upper Lip Lift Surgery: This involves the removal of a small piece of skin from either right below the base of the nose or immediately above the vermillion border of the upper lip. The remaining skin is then sutured back together, effectively reducing the philtrum length. The amount of skin removed is personalized based on the patient's current philtrum length, other facial structures, and desired results.
• Philtrum Contouring Surgery: This is a more innovative approach. An incision is made below the nasal base, and the muscles of the philtrum are manipulated and sutured in such a way that the vertical columns of tissue alongside the philtrum become more prominent, and the philtrum deepens. This can be combined with an upper lip lift for more comprehensive results.

New York City's Top Hospitals for Philtrum Shortening Surgery

US News evaluated 207 hospitals in New York, out of which 33 met high standards and were ranked in the state. These rankings provide a good starting point to identify hospitals with excellent medical facilities and experienced doctors, which are essential for a successful philtrum shortening surgery. Here are some of the top hospitals in New York City and their capabilities in this regard.

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell

This hospital is a top - tier medical institution in New York City. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties according to US News. Although philtrum shortening surgery is a cosmetic procedure, the hospital's overall surgical expertise can be an advantage. Its team of surgeons is well - trained in complex facial surgeries, and the hospital has state - of - the - art facilities. The surgical excellence at Columbia includes adult specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, as well as pediatric specialties like pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. This broad range of expertise indicates a high - level of surgical skill that can be applied to philtrum shortening procedures.

The hospital's commitment to research and innovation also means that patients can benefit from the latest techniques and technologies in facial surgery. The patient - centered approach at New York - Presbyterian Hospital ensures that patients receive personalized care throughout the surgical process, from pre - operative consultations to post - operative follow - ups.

Mount Sinai Hospital

Mount Sinai Hospital is another leading medical center in New York. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. The hospital has a reputation for providing high - quality medical care, and its plastic surgery department is staffed with experienced surgeons. In addition, the hospital's ranking in geriatrics (ranked No. 1 in the United States for geriatrics according to US News & World Report for 2024 - 25) shows its ability to handle age - related facial changes, which is relevant in the context of philtrum shortening surgery. The high - performing status in 20 procedures/conditions indicates a high success rate in surgical interventions.

The hospital also offers a comprehensive range of services, including pre - operative assessment, surgical planning, and post - operative rehabilitation. The multi - disciplinary approach at Mount Sinai ensures that patients receive holistic care, with input from plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses.

NYU Langone Hospitals

NYU Langone Hospitals are well - known for their medical excellence. They are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. The hospital's plastic surgery department has a team of highly skilled surgeons who are trained in the latest facial surgery techniques. The hospital's research programs also contribute to the development of new and improved surgical methods for philtrum shortening surgery.

Patients at NYU Langone can expect a high - level of care, from advanced diagnostic tools to minimally invasive surgical options. The hospital's focus on patient experience and satisfaction means that patients are well - informed about the procedure, its risks, and benefits, and are supported throughout the recovery process.

Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health

Lenox Hill Hospital is nationally ranked in 10 specialties. While it may not have the same number of ranked specialties as some of the other hospitals on this list, it still offers quality surgical services. The hospital's plastic surgery department has experienced surgeons who can perform philtrum shortening surgeries with precision. The high - performing status in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions reflects the hospital's ability to deliver good surgical outcomes.

The hospital also provides a comfortable and patient - friendly environment, which can contribute to a better overall experience for patients undergoing philtrum shortening surgery. The post - operative care at Lenox Hill Hospital is comprehensive, with follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's healing process.

Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health

This medical center is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. The hospital's diverse range of specialties indicates a well - rounded medical team. In the context of philtrum shortening surgery, the plastic surgeons at Long Island Jewish Medical Center can draw on the hospital's overall medical resources and expertise. The high - performing status in 1 specialty and 14 procedures/conditions shows the hospital's commitment to delivering quality surgical care.

The hospital offers a full range of services for philtrum shortening surgery, including pre - operative consultations to assess the patient's suitability for the procedure, surgical planning, and post - operative care to ensure a smooth recovery.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Hospital for Philtrum Shortening Surgery

Surgeon's Experience and Expertise

The experience and expertise of the surgeon are crucial factors in the success of philtrum shortening surgery. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a proven track record in performing this type of surgery. Surgeons with extensive experience are more likely to have encountered a variety of cases and can handle any complications that may arise during the procedure. For example, Dr. Gary Linkov at City Facial Plastics in Midtown, Manhattan, is one of the first and only plastic surgeons in the United States to perform philtrum contouring surgery. His experience in this specialized area makes him a sought - after surgeon for philtrum - related procedures.

Hospital Reputation

The reputation of the hospital is also important. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to have high - quality medical staff, advanced facilities, and a commitment to patient safety. The rankings by US News can be a good indicator of a hospital's reputation. For instance, hospitals like New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, Mount Sinai Hospital, and NYU Langone Hospitals are well - respected in the medical community, which can give patients confidence in their surgical outcomes.

Facility and Technology

Advanced facilities and technology can significantly improve the safety and effectiveness of philtrum shortening surgery. Look for hospitals that are equipped with the latest surgical tools and equipment, as well as state - of - the - art diagnostic and imaging facilities. For example, a hospital with advanced imaging technology can provide more accurate pre - operative assessments, which can lead to better surgical planning.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the patient experience at a particular hospital. Look for reviews that mention the quality of care, the surgeon's skill, and the post - operative recovery process. Positive reviews can be a good sign that the hospital and its surgeons are reliable and provide excellent service. For example, patients at City Facial Plastics have praised Dr. Gary Linkov for his expertise, care, and the positive results of their philtrum surgeries.

Comparison of Some Top Facilities for Philtrum Shortening Surgery

The Procedure and Recovery Process

The Surgery

Philtrum shortening surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation, depending on the patient's comfort level and the complexity of the procedure. For an upper lip lift, the surgeon first carefully marks the area beneath the nose to determine the precise amount of skin to remove. An incision, often referred to as the “bullhorn incision,” is placed discreetly where the nostrils and columella meet the upper lip area. A small strip of skin is then removed, and the upper lip is gently lifted and rolled outward. The incisions are closed with very fine sutures to minimize scarring.

In the case of philtrum contouring surgery, the surgeon makes an incision below the nasal base and manipulates and sutures the muscles of the philtrum to make the vertical columns of tissue more prominent and deepen the philtrum.

Recovery

After the surgery, patients can expect some mild swelling, bruising, or tightness around the incision area in the first few days. Applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help reduce swelling. Patients should avoid extensive chewing and drinking out of a straw for a few days to avoid putting pressure on the incision. Sutures are usually removed within 5 - 7 days. Most patients can resume light activities within a week, but strenuous exercise or heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 2 - 3 weeks. Full healing may take a few months, but significant improvements in the appearance of the philtrum can be noticed much sooner.

The Risks of Philtrum Shortening Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, philtrum shortening surgery carries certain risks. These include bleeding, infection, poor scarring, and an undesirable aesthetic result. When philtrum contouring is added to an upper lip lift, there may be a longer recovery period due to increased swelling. There is also a small risk of functional changes as the muscles are manipulated. However, choosing an experienced surgeon and a reputable hospital can significantly reduce these risks. Surgeons will discuss all potential risks with patients during the pre - operative consultation and provide personalized guidance to ensure the safest and most satisfying outcome.

Conclusion

New York City offers a plethora of excellent hospitals for philtrum shortening surgery. When considering this procedure, it is essential to do thorough research, taking into account factors such as the surgeon's experience, the hospital's reputation, the available facilities and technology, and patient reviews. Whether you choose a large - scale medical institution like New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell or a specialized facility like City Facial Plastics, ensuring that you are in the hands of a skilled professional is key to achieving the desired results.

If you are considering philtrum shortening surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon at one of the top hospitals in New York City. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals, learn more about the procedure, and get a better understanding of what to expect. Share this article with others who may be interested in philtrum shortening surgery and explore more about facial cosmetic procedures to make an informed decision for your aesthetic goals.